Power and limitations of Intranets, extranets, e-collaboration tools Essay

Power and limitations of Intranets, extranets, e-collaboration tools and portals - Essay Example Power and limitations of Intranets, extranets, e-collaboration tools and portals This study aims at providing a comparison and contrast of extranets, intranets, portals, and e-collaboration power and limitations. An understanding of the power and limitations of each of these connectivity tools will be handy in connectivity decision-making for businesses and individuals. The power and limitations will also aid in making a Decision on having a combination of the internet connectivity tools or a single one depending on the use and number of users. An intranet is internal company network using internet standards and software with the Internet standards including HTML, HTTP, and TCP/IP Protocols. Authorized persons have access to the intranet limiting information from being accessed by people outside the company with employees and management forming the main users of the intranet. Security layers allowing the optimum functioning of the intranet include firewall and public key security and encryption key for external and internal security respectively. An intranet is a powerful tool allowing the achievement of certain aims in an organization. The intranet provides an information distribution channel where employees access work instructions, templates, documents, and tools for efficient work performance on a single platform. Details of departments, colleagues, and even subsidiaries are also available on the intranet providing employees an easy platform to contact and communicate with colleagues and share knowledge and resources fo r better work performance.